Sheep on Mount Zion, by William J. Webb(e) (1830-1912[?]. 1862. Oil on canvas. 9¾ x 14 inches (24.8 x 35.5 cm). Private collection. Image courtesy of Christie's. Not to be downloaded; right click disabled.
Webb(e) exhibited this work at the Society of British Artists in 1863, no. 453. It is dated 1862 meaning it is one of the works that he likely painted on the spot in Jerusalem during his visit to the Holy Land. This implication is reinforced by the fact of the inscription "from nature" on an old label on the backboard. This is one of Webb's first Orientalist works and clearly shows the continued influence of Pre-Raphaelitism on his early works in his use of meticulous detail and bright colours. It is reminiscent of the works of William Holman Hunt in paintings such as his The Hireling Shepherd of 1852 or Strayed Sheep of 1853.
Mount Zion is the Western Hill in Jerusalem located just outside of the walls of the Old City, and separated from the lower Eastern Hill by the central valley. It was the highest point in ancient Jerusalem. Webb includes a flock of sheep in the foreground resting by a tree to the left. In the distant background to the right of centre is the Stebbi Daoud [Maqam Al-Nabi Daoud], the tomb of David, and the walls of Jerusalem. The scene is painted in the brilliant colours of midday in the Holy Land.
Bibliography
Victorian, Pre-Raphaelite & British Impressionist Art. London: Christie's (June 17, 2014): lot 23.
Created 31 May 2025